Saïd Business School (SBS) is the business school of the University of Oxford, one of the world’s most prestigious universities. Established in 1996, it is one of the newer departments of the university, named after Wafic Saïd, a prominent businessman and philanthropist whose generous donation helped to fund its creation.
Saïd Business School is known for its strong emphasis on research and thought leadership in areas such as finance, entrepreneurship, social impact, and global business. The school’s research centers and initiatives include the Oxford University Centre for Corporate Reputation, the Skoll Centre for Social Entrepreneurship, and the Oxford Future of Finance and Technology Initiative.
Saïd Business School Academic Programs
Saïd Business School offers a wide range of academic programs focused on business, management, and finance. These include:
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Master of Business Administration (MBA): The flagship program of Saïd Business School, the Oxford MBA is a one-year program designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and network necessary to succeed in global business.
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Executive MBA (EMBA): A part-time program designed for experienced professionals who want to advance their careers while continuing to work. It allows students to apply their learning directly to their current roles.
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MSc in Financial Economics: A highly regarded program that combines the study of finance and economics, providing students with a strong analytical foundation.
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MSc in Law and Finance: Offered in collaboration with the Faculty of Law, this program is designed for those who wish to pursue a career at the intersection of law and finance.
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Doctor of Philosophy (DPhil) in Management Studies: This is a research-focused program for those wishing to pursue an academic career in business and management.
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Executive Education: Saïd Business School also offers a range of executive education programs, including short courses and custom programs for organizations.
Integration with Oxford’s Collegiate System
While Saïd Business School operates as a department of the University of Oxford, students enrolled in its programs are also members of one of the university’s colleges. This provides them with the unique opportunity to experience the rich traditions and social life of Oxford’s collegiate system while pursuing a business education.
What Is It Like to Study at Saïd Business School?
Students at Saïd Business School experience a high level of academic rigor. The school is known for its demanding curriculum, particularly in the MBA program, where students cover a broad range of business disciplines including finance, marketing, strategy, and operations. The teaching methods include a mix of lectures, case studies, group work, and real-world projects, often taught by leading academics and industry experts. The integration of theoretical knowledge with practical applications is a hallmark of the school’s approach, helping students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
The school’s modern campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including lecture theatres, classrooms, study spaces, and social areas, all designed to support a world-class business education. Its central location also allows students easy access to the amenities and attractions of Oxford, including its libraries, museums, and vibrant city life.
A Global Perspective
Saïd Business School is highly international, attracting students from all over the world. This diversity enriches classroom discussions and group projects, allowing students to gain insights from various cultural and business perspectives. The global nature of the school is further enhanced by its strong connections with businesses and institutions around the world, offering students opportunities for international internships, exchanges, and networking.
Where is Saïd Business School?
The school is situated on Park End Street, just a short walk from the main train station, Oxford Railway Station. This location places the business school close to many of the University of Oxford’s historic colleges and landmarks, integrating it within the rich academic and cultural environment of the city.
The school often hosts public events, lectures, and seminars, which are open to the wider community. These events provide an opportunity for visitors to experience the school’s environment and engage with its academic activities. However, access to specific areas like classrooms, study spaces, and administrative offices is generally restricted to members of the University of Oxford or those with a specific reason to visit, such as prospective students on a tour or guests attending a conference or meeting.
